Spend some time on this forum, especially taking note of the other threads in this particular section. Using what you already have, and adding real tiki touches here and there, you might have something! For many here, it is a lifelong pursuit....but you are already halfway there since your structure is already built.

You need bamboo, real tikis, tapa cloth, possibly a thatch roof, tropical plants, ambient lighting, blowfish lamps, spears, shields, there are soooooo many things you can add that would turn this into something special.

A great starting point (besides this forum) is to pick up "book of tiki" by Sven Kirsten.

Then check out the work of the master decorators on this forum, such as Bamboo Ben.

Thanks for the tips guys! Actually the pics are a little old and I have done some changes already. The roof is cedar shakes as I know the thatch will not hold up thru the winters here. Neither will tropical plants. So I do what I can with that, and I have my plants in the house for winter. But they will never be big. I already have some cool lighting for inside, and I am working on re-doing the surfboard thing with some thatch and a shelf or two for my tiki mugs and booze. I have been looking for that 'just right' tikis, and we do use several torches these days. A while back (on here somewhere) I saw someone had a tiki serving tray (utinsel/napkin/condiment holder) it was awesome! I have not seen one anywhere for sale. SO i am still hunting for that. Always open for suggestions as I trust this will always be a work in progress...

Welcome Jimbo! I live in the desert so I understand the challenge of getting things that look tropical and will survive the climate. This thread on Tropical Gardens with Hardy Plants may be of use to you.
_________________May we all get to have a chance to ride the fast one
Walk away wiser when we crashed one
Keep hoping that the best one is the last one

Welcome to TC. I have to use fake plants in my lounge as I have a tendency to kill live plants. It's all good...you do what you can. Lot's of beautiful Tikis to be had in the marketplace on this board...wink wink wink.
_________________ "Oh waiter, another cocktail please!!!"

Jimbo, when you are chatting on TC with others you are often chatting with the artists that create the look for many of the Tiki bars and restaurants of this century. Even last century! Many here, myself included, actually carve tikis, make lamps, mugs, accoutrement etc, for private home bars and restaurants. Take a look thru the Tiki Gallery.
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yes, there are some great artists here. Truly gifted. Thanks for the tips!! Just looking for ideas for next summer's Tiki bar work! I am in MN, where the water in my pool is currently frozen _________________

On 2013-01-10 18:53, jimbo020 wrote:yes, there are some great artists here. Truly gifted. Thanks for the tips!! Just looking for ideas for next summer's Tiki bar work! I am in MN, where the water in my pool is currently frozen